Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Not many of you will know this about me, because I try to keep my blog diversified with what I post. However, my go to food is chip and dip! Any kind of chip and any kind of dip, could eat myself silly. I am really not joking, I am a chip and dip connoisseur. 

It was only a matter of time that I have started to venture making my own dips! What is your favorite kind of dip? I definitely enjoy a good sausage or buffalo chicken dip, but when I am in a veggie mood, spinach and artichoke is where it is at! Now, I have had a lot of different types of spinach and artichoke dip. Costco puts water chestnuts, carrots, etc in theirs which is a nice added crunch. However, I do like to stick to the basics. 

So of course I went to the data center for creativity and recipes, Pinterest, to start my quest for a good looking recipe. Luckily I came across this one, Averie Cooks. It seemed simple enough and economically. I followed the recipe, but I do believe it would be just as good with the substitutes.

Not too many pictures with post, since it was so simple…but it filled out bellies and more! I might even stuff chicken or pork with it!   

 

Spinach & Artichoke Dip 

3/4 c spinach (I used frozen and this is after draining it and squeezing it tight)

3/4 c artichokes hearts

1/3 c mayonnaise  

1/4 c cream cheese

1/3 c shredded cheese (Pepperjack, ricotta, mozzerella, Daiya, Parmesan, no/lowfat cheese, etc.)

Black Pepper to taste

Optional Seasonings to taste: Salt, Garlic, Onion Powder, Cayenne, Chili Powder, Curry, Red Pepper Flakes, seasoning blends such as  Mrs. Dash blends, etc.

Directions:  Combine thawed (or fresh) spinach and artichokes (diced) in a bowl.

In another bowl, combine all remaining ingredients and stir.  Pour white mixture over the spinach and artichokes, stir, and serve.  Refrigerate leftovers for a few days; use common sense.

Optional tweaks:

Make this as a hot dip by baking in ramekins or a small baking dish for about 20 minutes at 350F or until bubbling/browned.   Top with cheese on the top in the last 5 minutes or so of baking or broil for a cheesy gooey top layer.

Yields approximately 1 1/2 cups dip.  Double or triple the recipe if making for a party or crowd.

I hope you enjoyed this recipe as much as we did!

Happy Cooking!!